Ford Stadium updates gameday safety policy

According to an SMU press release Tuesday, it is now mandatory for all football fans entering Gerald J. Ford Stadium to bring clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags to carry their belongings. These bags can not contain any items that have been restricted by the 2015 SMU Football Gameday policy list.

The new safety policy instructs attendants to bring only bags made of “clear plastic, vinyl or PVC which do not exceed 12-by-6-by-12 inches, one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar), or small clutch bags (about the size of a hand) with or without a strap. The clutch does not have to be clear and may be carried separately or within an approved plastic bag.”

Items restricted from entering Ford Stadium are as follows:

· Purses

· Coolers

· Briefcases

· Backpacks

· Computer and Camera bags

· Cinch bags

· Diaper Bags

· Fanny Packs

· Luggage of any kind

· Seat cushions with zippers, pockets or compartments

· Outside food or drink (one sealed bottle of water permitted)

· Laser pointers

· Noisemakers

· Footballs or throwing objects

· Radios (except pocket size with headsets)

· Animals (except those assisting disabled guests)

· Firearms, weapons, or knives of any kind

Items that fit pockets such as keys, cell phones and ID cards are still permitted. Additional screenings are available at all gates for medical items that do not adhere to the clear bag policy.

The changes to SMU’s gameday policy aim to improve protection against smuggling items into the stadium and to accelerate passage through security screenings at stadium entrances.

These new changes will be posted around SMU parking facilities in order to inform Mustang football fans.